I began using Processing in 2008 while attending graduate school at UCSB’s Media Arts & Technology program and quickly became captivated by its unique balance of simplicity and complexity. Processing introduced me to the world of computer graphics through its OpenGL capabilities, providing a powerful yet approachable framework for exploring the field.

For months, I spent countless late nights coding particle systems, experimenting with OpenGL, and creating procedural and generative art. The video above is a collection of those early explorations, showcasing various visual effects I developed, including fluid fields, particle systems, springs, and cellular automata. These tools became the foundation for many of the art pieces I created during that period.

My passion for Processing eventually led me to drive down to Los Angeles, where I met with Casey Reas, one of Processing’s co-creators. I asked him to be my graduate advisor, and he graciously accepted. His mentorship opened up incredible opportunities that shaped my career.

Thank you, Casey. Thank you, Processing.